Brian doubts Spanish striker move

Reading manager Brian McDermott has admitted the Royals have been keeping an eye on Iago Aspas, but are unlikely to make any move this month.

The 25-year old, who currently plays for Celta Vigo in La Liga, could only be prized away from Spain, if a club matches his 8 million euros contract release clause. Despite McDermott admitting there is interest from the Royals in Aspas, the price of the player will put to bed any rumours of a follow-up offer.

Speaking to the Reading Post, McDermott said: "I would be really surprised if Aspas moved in this transfer window. He`s been a Celta Vigo player since he was a boy and they`re not looking great in the league. The money they are talking about is a fortune. I would be surprised if anyone could do that deal. It`s expensive and a difficult one.'

'Steve Head knows him well. I`ve seen him play, our scouts have seen him play and he has had a couple of really good seasons. We know him - but it`s difficult. Generally the deals that we do are not big deals. There would have to be some structuring to do. We`ve never done a deal like that. Nick Hammond would know how it would be structured."

There was talk that Reading were willing to pay the release clause for Aspas in three installments, but within their right, Celta rejected this approach from the Premier League side. It is also believed Chelsea are keen on the pacey forward, who has scored eight goals in 18 appearances in La Liga this season.